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The Magic of Surrender: Finding the Courage to Let Go
From one of the boldest voices in the world of personal growth and motivation, a guide to moving past inner struggle to discover the power of relinquishing control.
Too often we limit our lives by putting conditions on them. We think things should go a certain way, and when they don't, we hold on to what isn't working, reinforcing what is causing us pain and affirming our lack of trust in the universe. There is another way: We can harness the power of relinquishing control and discover more purpose and meaning in our lives.
After the passing of Kute Blackson's mother in 2017, he discovered that the powerful lesson his mother had been modeling her whole life had always been at the heart of his own teachings--he just hadn't realized it. What was that keen insight? Surrender isn't passive. It isn't giving up. It's strong and courageous. It's about tapping in. In this inspiring book, Blackson traces how surrender was a key factor in the lives of so many great people throughout history, and shows readers how they can move past self-imposed barriers in their lives to discover the freedom and possibility on the other side of surrender.
Too often we limit our lives by putting conditions on them. We think things should go a certain way, and when they don't, we hold on to what isn't working, reinforcing what is causing us pain and affirming our lack of trust in the universe. There is another way: We can harness the power of relinquishing control and discover more purpose and meaning in our lives.
After the passing of Kute Blackson's mother in 2017, he discovered that the powerful lesson his mother had been modeling her whole life had always been at the heart of his own teachings--he just hadn't realized it. What was that keen insight? Surrender isn't passive. It isn't giving up. It's strong and courageous. It's about tapping in. In this inspiring book, Blackson traces how surrender was a key factor in the lives of so many great people throughout history, and shows readers how they can move past self-imposed barriers in their lives to discover the freedom and possibility on the other side of surrender.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published May 4, 2021
48 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 8, 2021
The message of the book is great, the writing not so much. I felt that the author used grand language to convey a simple message which ironically diminished for me the points he set out to make. Overall, good life lessons in there and an easy, albeit annoying read.
September 23, 2021
Some good points but kind of went on and on
February 4, 2025
This is definitely one of the better and well thought out and written self help / spirituality books out there. It’s redefined so many aspects of life for me and I am surely on my journey to being completely free, whatever that may mean. I think what resonated the most is to stop trying to understand and just listen and let life reveal itself. Some of the anecdotes I didn’t find 100% related to the lesson but still good to read. Thank you to my therapist who recommended this book to me. It actually could’ve not come at a better time!!
January 30, 2025
Book came along at a time when I was looking for something like this, so 5 stars. I like the ideas of what a life purpose really is, being open to what the universe has in store for us, how the ideas in our head that we hold onto are what cause us to struggle. Though the examples and anecdotes I did not get much value from.
September 21, 2021
I'm a fan of Kute Blackson. I adore his book You. Are. The. One and have read it multiple times. I was hoping for something as powerful again and there is a lot of fantastic stuff in this book, but it didn't quite hit the mark for me in the same way - although I will read it again.
I understand the concept of letting go, but do struggle with the use of the word 'surrender' and 'magic' used in this context. The connation is that you give up on something or giving yourself over to something. Although the message in this book is to give yourself over to your heart, and not let your mind or your fears rule your life. It's about letting your heart decide, follow your heart and listen to that, rather than do things you don't really want to do because you are chasing a specific outcome.
I felt using words like Magic and Surrender is really feeding into the esoteric side of spirituality that has become a marketing tool in the personal development industry, and moves away from helping people develop tools to actually move forward in your life. Although Kute simplifies these terms to make them accessible, and is in some ways straddling the two to reach a wider audience. The overall theme in this book was about not resisting life and letting it happen and live in the moment and let go of a specific outcome or expectation. Not a new concept and one he has tackled in his previous book.
Kute uses a method of providing multiple examples that go over the same subject so you can absorb it from different perspectives and find one that works for you. There were examples in this book that reflected my situation exactly, and each time I gained more understanding about what I need to do - or, more accurately, what I need to think; how to change my mindset and see how I can open up my life to be everything I want it to be. When I found myself struggling or disbelieving an example, I realised it meant I was wrangling with the concept and it was a moment of growth for me.
It's the kind of book that definitely needs more than one read to be able to consume all the messages and teachings offered within it, even though it wasn't as prolific as his first book.
I understand the concept of letting go, but do struggle with the use of the word 'surrender' and 'magic' used in this context. The connation is that you give up on something or giving yourself over to something. Although the message in this book is to give yourself over to your heart, and not let your mind or your fears rule your life. It's about letting your heart decide, follow your heart and listen to that, rather than do things you don't really want to do because you are chasing a specific outcome.
I felt using words like Magic and Surrender is really feeding into the esoteric side of spirituality that has become a marketing tool in the personal development industry, and moves away from helping people develop tools to actually move forward in your life. Although Kute simplifies these terms to make them accessible, and is in some ways straddling the two to reach a wider audience. The overall theme in this book was about not resisting life and letting it happen and live in the moment and let go of a specific outcome or expectation. Not a new concept and one he has tackled in his previous book.
Kute uses a method of providing multiple examples that go over the same subject so you can absorb it from different perspectives and find one that works for you. There were examples in this book that reflected my situation exactly, and each time I gained more understanding about what I need to do - or, more accurately, what I need to think; how to change my mindset and see how I can open up my life to be everything I want it to be. When I found myself struggling or disbelieving an example, I realised it meant I was wrangling with the concept and it was a moment of growth for me.
It's the kind of book that definitely needs more than one read to be able to consume all the messages and teachings offered within it, even though it wasn't as prolific as his first book.
September 12, 2022
“The Magic of Surrender” by Kute Blackson came into my life by Divine Intervention. My life was not going too well. I was at the library and I prayed to God to lead me to The Book which will help me in this hour of need. I followed my intuition and picked this book out of the tons of books out there. I did not know anything about the book or its author. Going through the book was such a transformative experience. Many sections in the book brought tears along with a deep sense of understanding of the ways of the Universe. I ended up highlighting almost the entire book. I have read the book at least 6 times in 6 months and I plan to continue reading it throughout my life.
This is a practical book written in a simple and humorous way and has great tips to face life and its setbacks. It is easy to understand and put into practice.
“Surrender” is all that you have to do to live a happy, peaceful life! This book shows you how.
This is a practical book written in a simple and humorous way and has great tips to face life and its setbacks. It is easy to understand and put into practice.
“Surrender” is all that you have to do to live a happy, peaceful life! This book shows you how.
January 13, 2022
I really enjoyed the message behind this read — surrender, stop questioning and let things flow. The boldened texts were my favorite parts, but I found myself slogging through overwritten pieces of the author’s life. I picked this up because I listened to Kute on a podcast and liked his message and how he conveyed himself on it. I did not enjoy this book as much, and often had a hard time believing that what I was reading actually occurred.
January 13, 2025
I don’t know I just think the same thing could have been said in just a paragraph or two rather than across 254 pages
December 2, 2024
An empowering and heartfelt guide to embracing the transformative power of surrender. Drawing from personal experiences and spiritual insights, Kute Blackson presents surrender not as a passive act of giving up but as an active, courageous choice to align with life’s flow and unlock greater possibilities.
The central theme of the book revolves around letting go of control and preconceived notions to open oneself up to life’s infinite potential. Blackson reframes surrender as a path to freedom, encouraging readers to trust the universe, embrace uncertainty, and find purpose in the face of challenges. The book is deeply spiritual, blending elements of Eastern philosophy, personal development, and universal truths.
Blackson uses anecdotes from his own life—particularly his journey of caring for his mother during her terminal illness—to illustrate the profound lessons he has learned about surrender. The book is filled with practical advice and reflective exercises that encourage readers to examine their attachments, fears, and resistance to change. Blackson provides tools for cultivating trust in the unknown, fostering resilience, and embracing vulnerability. He challenges readers to confront their egos and reframe their relationship with failure, loss, and impermanence.
One of the strengths of The Magic of Surrender is its universality. The lessons Blackson shares are applicable across different areas of life, whether it’s relationships, career, or personal growth. His emphasis on surrender as an active and intentional choice is both refreshing and inspiring. The book strikes a balance between being motivational and practical, offering insights that can be implemented immediately.
For readers who are skeptical of spiritual concepts or prefer more structured, evidence-based approaches to personal growth, some parts of the book may feel too abstract or overly reliant on faith. Additionally, while Blackson’s stories are compelling, some might find the book’s tone to lean too heavily on inspiration at the expense of deeper exploration of psychological or scientific underpinnings.
The Magic of Surrender is an uplifting and transformative read for anyone who wants to understand the true meaning of surrender. It’s a book that will resonate with those on a spiritual journey or anyone looking for a new perspective on navigating life’s challenges.
The central theme of the book revolves around letting go of control and preconceived notions to open oneself up to life’s infinite potential. Blackson reframes surrender as a path to freedom, encouraging readers to trust the universe, embrace uncertainty, and find purpose in the face of challenges. The book is deeply spiritual, blending elements of Eastern philosophy, personal development, and universal truths.
Blackson uses anecdotes from his own life—particularly his journey of caring for his mother during her terminal illness—to illustrate the profound lessons he has learned about surrender. The book is filled with practical advice and reflective exercises that encourage readers to examine their attachments, fears, and resistance to change. Blackson provides tools for cultivating trust in the unknown, fostering resilience, and embracing vulnerability. He challenges readers to confront their egos and reframe their relationship with failure, loss, and impermanence.
One of the strengths of The Magic of Surrender is its universality. The lessons Blackson shares are applicable across different areas of life, whether it’s relationships, career, or personal growth. His emphasis on surrender as an active and intentional choice is both refreshing and inspiring. The book strikes a balance between being motivational and practical, offering insights that can be implemented immediately.
For readers who are skeptical of spiritual concepts or prefer more structured, evidence-based approaches to personal growth, some parts of the book may feel too abstract or overly reliant on faith. Additionally, while Blackson’s stories are compelling, some might find the book’s tone to lean too heavily on inspiration at the expense of deeper exploration of psychological or scientific underpinnings.
The Magic of Surrender is an uplifting and transformative read for anyone who wants to understand the true meaning of surrender. It’s a book that will resonate with those on a spiritual journey or anyone looking for a new perspective on navigating life’s challenges.
March 16, 2025
I had planned on reading another book this weekend…
And then I saw this book tucked under a pile of papers I hadn’t put away yet, and a clear heart-pull said: “this is the book you need and want to read right now.”
I opened it yesterday and read it all the way through in one sitting. I devoured it. I cried from the Prologue (reading your mother’s story brought me back to my own feelings of my late father’s impact in my life now)…and SURRENDER is such a scary thing but it IS THE THING.
This book is PURE MAGIC. The writing is superb. The storytelling is relevant and inspiring.
I can’t think of a recent book on personal development and self-leadership that I’ve read that’s even in the realm of yours right now. And I read a new book a week.
“It is in the small that the seeds of greatness take root.” - from the book🦄
And then I saw this book tucked under a pile of papers I hadn’t put away yet, and a clear heart-pull said: “this is the book you need and want to read right now.”
I opened it yesterday and read it all the way through in one sitting. I devoured it. I cried from the Prologue (reading your mother’s story brought me back to my own feelings of my late father’s impact in my life now)…and SURRENDER is such a scary thing but it IS THE THING.
This book is PURE MAGIC. The writing is superb. The storytelling is relevant and inspiring.
I can’t think of a recent book on personal development and self-leadership that I’ve read that’s even in the realm of yours right now. And I read a new book a week.
“It is in the small that the seeds of greatness take root.” - from the book🦄
June 9, 2022
This book was a lovely tribute to the author's mother where he shared his appreciation and gratitude as well as his growing awareness of what is truly important to him, as well as his efforts to live an authentic life. It is a good testament of the importance of surrender but the examples are very entry level and lacked the mindfulness or awareness of moving from doing to being. I also believe the author's definition of surrender was a little over reaching to suggest what life agendas should be to be right and contributing properly in the world. Again, a lot of emphasis on doing, specially those fighting for causes. It just wasn't the deep dive I had hoped for related to the subject of surrender.
May 11, 2023
"The master addiction is control." Those are powerful words from Kute Blackson in this quick read, The Magic of Surrender. The author is insightful and gets to the point of how our life, love, and relationships are negatively affected by control and other characteristics, like embracing the status quo and hiding from our true selves. "Who do I need to be in order to be loved? we ask. And then we create 'ourselves' based on our answers." Live your truth. Be who you're really meant to be (who God created you to be) and, oh, read this book. It will not disappoint.
August 20, 2025
I decided to read this book after my son, who is 43 years old, told me that this book changed his life. At first the book was very redundant but I stuck with it and throughly enjoyed the message; surrender to the NOW, and stop fearing the unknown. Trusting the universe is easier said than done. However, he gives a convincing argument for how we can experience a life filled with peace and purpose. Isn't that what we all want? Pick up the book and see if it changes your life.
August 26, 2025
Kute just GETS IT. Bad things in life happen and you have to learn to surrender to the flow, rather than try to force your way through it. I read this at a really tough time in my life and it was my morning bible every single day. I stretched it out and only read 1 chapter a morning because I never wanted it to end. You have to love and find gratitude in your circumstances and let go of attachment to outcomes.
May 1, 2023
I picked this up after listening to Kute on the Disrupt Yourself podcast with Whitney Johnson where his words inspired me. There are sone great ideas. Good tidbits to tuck away.
Perhaps he's just more engaging as a person than as an author. There's juxtaposition of good ideas with real world examples. They just didn't have the same punch as they did on the podcast.
Perhaps he's just more engaging as a person than as an author. There's juxtaposition of good ideas with real world examples. They just didn't have the same punch as they did on the podcast.
January 20, 2025
3.5/5
I feel bad rating this 3.5 because it feels low. Honestly I don't think there's anything wrong with this book per say, it just didn't hit me the way a 4 or 5 stay book would. It was a quick read, no new info for me or a person who reads a lot of self development but still stood as a nice reminder :) I saw him on a podcast and enjoyed that a lot, he's a great speaker.
I feel bad rating this 3.5 because it feels low. Honestly I don't think there's anything wrong with this book per say, it just didn't hit me the way a 4 or 5 stay book would. It was a quick read, no new info for me or a person who reads a lot of self development but still stood as a nice reminder :) I saw him on a podcast and enjoyed that a lot, he's a great speaker.
October 17, 2022
My therapist recommended this book to me and I love the sentiment. I took some notes and a few times felt that the message given was very timely or relatable. However, the book sort of went on and on and I felt that the chapters were the same message just worded differently.
August 18, 2023
This book give me a new outlook on life. Kute’s perspective helped me heal and continue to heal everyday. The moment I read page 1 I was hooked. His message was something I needed to hear. A great book to go back to for clarity.
June 26, 2025
I loved this book! I don’t often give 5 stars - it has to be an amazing, almost life-altering book.
I took it slow, I journaled, I reread, and I pondered. This book has taken a part of my heart and filled me with peace, belonging, and joy! I’m grateful for it and will reread it.
I took it slow, I journaled, I reread, and I pondered. This book has taken a part of my heart and filled me with peace, belonging, and joy! I’m grateful for it and will reread it.
May 15, 2021
Thought provoking and concise, this book opened my eyes up to the opportunities in surrender and the power of mindset in times of challenge/difficulty.
October 16, 2021
This book is a must read. He so easily portrays “ The Magic of Surrender”
May 9, 2022
did not finish because i lost the book! : (
July 5, 2022
This book gave me a couple of really good "ah ha!" moments that I think will help me grow and enjoy life's journey with less struggle on my part.
August 12, 2022
Inspirational. Greatness in the small things. Give unconditional love. Surrender so that you can be open to opportunities. Purpose is growing your soul.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2023
Great pace to ease you into topics that people find hard to address. It was like reading a pep talk. I personally like more direct information.
December 13, 2023
Amazing book. Really shows how to surrender to bring more things into your life. Living an authentic life and doing some deep digging.
February 20, 2024
Sometimes the "inspirational speaker" vibes were a little strong for me which is why it's not a 5-star. But overall, it's exactly what I needed right now.
September 13, 2024
For someone who is preaching about relinquishing his ego, I found him still speaking from it. This was a very hard read for me.
October 22, 2024
A book you read more than once, looking within yourself.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews